There are many economic and social benefits associated with the re-opening to passenger rail service in growing communities. The effect in New Hampshire will be felt not just along the Merrimack Valley but throughout the state due to the overall improved infrastructure in place.

In particular we are likely to see the following substantial benefits:

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Millions of dollars injected into local regions of the economy as a result of new business investment and consequent new employment opportunities

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Likely increase in residential property values of between 5% and 10% compared to surrounding communities not served by rail

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Improved access to all parts of the state through a more integrated transport network with additional transportation services radiating out from key rail stations and terminals

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Increased tourism due to the improved access to, from and within the state

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Significantly reduced traffic congestion on route 3 and interstate 93 due to an increase in the levels of commuters and freight traffic being moved by rail

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Reduced journey times to and from Boston and other communities in MA and NH

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Local communities becoming more socially inclusive, by retaining young and attracting new people of all ages able to live and work in the areas around the line

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More choice for all residents

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The provision of a safe alternative to the car

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Reduced vehicle pollutants into the environment

It is important to understand that ALL of the above benefits will provide economic advantages in one way or another. It may be difficult to quantify some of the benefits, but they are real, they are significant, and they need to be included when considering the initial and on-going investment needed.

Proposed Route and Stations

The proposed route for the passenger train service would be an extension of the existing Boston to Lowell service operated by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) along existing but upgraded tracks all the way to Concord.

There would be new stations in Nashua (East Spitbrook Road and Downtown), Merrimack, Bedford (for the town and Manchester Airport), Manchester, Hooksett and Concord.

Sample Schedules

The following are sample schedules from commuter service that was operated during 1980-81. The first schedule is of a train leaving Concord for Boston, and the second is of the trial railbus-train combination for off-peak commuter service.